[Laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of complicated gastroesophageal reflux]

Laparoscopic antireflux surgery has quickly developed since Bernard Dallemagne carried out the first laparoscopic fundoplication in 1991. However, only preliminary results from institutional series are available. The authors review the indications for laparoscopic antireflux surgery. In addition, technical aspects of several reported laparoscopic antireflux procedures are evaluated. Data from institutional series show that morbidity and mortality rates after laparoscopic antireflux surgery are similar to those reported for open surgery, with a perioperative morbidity rate ranging between 4% and 26% and a mortality rate under 0.6%. Endoscopic dilation for postoperative dysphagia is required in 7%-11% of the cases. In summary, preliminary data show that laparoscopic antireflux surgery may play a predominant role in the treatment of complicated gastroesophageal reflux. Meanwhile, controlled trials with open surgery and medical therapy should be done before the laparoscopic approach is generalized.